Ow!

Sometimes it seems like colder weather just brings out the aches and pains.  I like to whine about stuff as much as the next person, but eventually I want to deal with the issues, so here are some thoughts about what to do when it all hurts, since a Hawaiian vacation is not on the horizon any time soon.

 

On the prevention side of the equation, we can make sure that we get enough of a warm-up before we work out.  If, like me, other folks are impatient, it might be a good idea to re-brand the idea as “not going at top speed/weight/intensity from the starting buzzer.”  Also, it is best to get a little warm before starting to stretch—cold muscles are cranky about flexibility just like cold rubber bands don’t like stretching much.  Choosing the right workout intensity is also a good idea to help keep things from hurting too much—a little soreness is a good thing, but we need to dial it down if we’re still feeling it after two days.

 

Then there is the palliative side of things.  (Insert usual disclaimer here.  I am not a doctor or a physical therapist.  I do not diagnose or treat illness or injury.  I am a trainer giving generalized advice for non-injury soreness.  Injured people should seek out qualified medical professionals.)  The old trainer’s mantra is RICE:  rest, ice, compression, elevation, or in other words, take it easy, chill it, wrap it, and hold it above the heart until the swelling goes down.  In addition, if there is soreness but no swelling, warmth can be helpful.  I am a big fan of Ibuprofen for those who can take it or other OTC pain relievers—no pain is better than pain!—but not if it means that we’re just going to go out and do more of what made us sore in the first place.  Massage can also make us feel like whole new humans.  If the budget doesn’t allow for massage, foam rollers, tune-up balls, or other SMR tools might do the trick.

 

It is okay to rest and recover.  It is how we come back stronger.